Ashill Primary School, between Watton and Swaffham, had come under criticism from Ofsted 18 months ago, receiving a report which said the school “required improvement” in nearly all areas.

Since then, there have been “major staffing changes” and efforts have been made to improve the quality of teaching and learning.

The school was re-visited by Ofsted inspectors last month – earlier than the two-year time frame – and has been told it is a “good” school.

In inspector Valerie Palmer’s report, she praises the “dedicated” staff, the pupils’ behaviour and the school’s governors.

The report says: “The headteacher, staff and governors have been very successful in bringing about rapid improvements in pupils’ progress and the quality of teaching and learning since the last inspection.

“Dedicated staff and a well-planned programme of training have resulted in teaching being typically good. Some is outstanding.

“Good relationships between staff and pupils create a positive climate for learning. Teachers mark work thoroughly. They make sure pupils respond to their comments and challenges, and this has helped them to make accelerated progress.”

Ms Palmer also recognised the support given by additional adults and said the pupils were “friendly, polite and well-mannered”.

In the report, she adds: “Pupils are proud of their school. They say they feel safe and enjoy coming to school. Children in reception make a good start thanks to well-taught, exciting learning activities.

“Governors know the school well. They work closely with leaders, ask challenging questions and ensure that development priorities are successfully tackled.”

Initiatives praised at the school include the breakfast club and a link -up with Wayland Academy for a select number of pupils.

To improve further, the school has been advised to give more able pupils work that consistently challenges them, raise standards in writing and maths and improve pupils’ understanding of the “diversity of cultures that make up modern Britain”.

Headteacher Kelly Scott, who was described as “inspirational” and the “driving force” in the report, said: “This has been a real team effort and I am exceptionally proud of all we have achieved in such a short period of time. The staff and governors are a strong and cohesive team who are striving for excellence for the pupils in our care. We have a school to be proud of and believe this is the start, not end, of our journey.”

Have you got a story from the Swaffham area? Email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk